Monocular compound microscope, in remarkable state of completeness - 1891 - 1850-1900 - Germany - E. Leitz Wetzlar.
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Ernst Leitz Wetzlar monocular compound microscope dating to 1891, serial no. 20871, with a brass lacquer finish, original teak transit case, complete with lenses and accessories, case measures 33 × 19 × 18 cm, Germany, good condition and tested working.
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Description from the seller
A well preserved compound brass microscope by the legendary German master, E. Leitz Wetzlar. Crafted in 1891, this instrument is a stunning testament to late-19th-century mechanical precision and artistic engineering.
Fitted with serial number No. 20871 cleanly engraved across its classic horseshoe foot, the microscope maintains a brilliant, rich golden-brass finish that catches the light beautifully. The mechanics move smoothly, featuring fine rack-and-pinion focusing, a pivoting sub-stage condenser assembly, and an adjustable monocular drawtube.
What elevates this specific piece from an ordinary antique to a true collector’s investment is its remarkable state of completeness. Nestled inside its original, warm teak lockable transit case (complete with carrying handle and working lock mechanism and key), you will find the original handwritten Ernst Leitz magnification chart matching the microscope's serial number verbatim. The inside door also proudly sports its original retailer plaque from A. Frazer, Optician, Edinburgh, documenting its historic journey from Germany to the United Kingdom.
Complete with its original wooden accessory slide drawers housing secondary eyepieces and objective canisters, this is an "instant heirloom" display piece perfect for an executive desk, library shelf, or a serious history-of-science collection.
Key Specifications & Condition Report:
Manufacturer: Ernst Leitz Wetzlar, Germany.
Serial Number: 20871 dates exactly to 1891.
Inclusions: Original mahogany cabinet, matching numbered factory documentation card, objective lenses in brass canisters, additional eyepieces, and sub-stage mirror as well as a further colour filter with blue and green interchangeable glasses.
Condition: Excellent antique condition. Brass lacquer is bright with only micro-surface scuffs consistent with careful handling over the last 130+ years. Glass elements are clear; internal gears engage beautifully. Please note that the slide clips are not quite a matching pair.
The case measures 33 (excluding handle) x 19 x 18cm approximately (13" x 7.5" x 7").
Seller's Story
Welcome to Beautiful Old England. We specialise in Antiquarian Books, Antique Surgical Instruments, art and collectibles from old England, for collectors all over the world. We have supplied customers in over 30 countries, nearly all with same day despatch.
A well preserved compound brass microscope by the legendary German master, E. Leitz Wetzlar. Crafted in 1891, this instrument is a stunning testament to late-19th-century mechanical precision and artistic engineering.
Fitted with serial number No. 20871 cleanly engraved across its classic horseshoe foot, the microscope maintains a brilliant, rich golden-brass finish that catches the light beautifully. The mechanics move smoothly, featuring fine rack-and-pinion focusing, a pivoting sub-stage condenser assembly, and an adjustable monocular drawtube.
What elevates this specific piece from an ordinary antique to a true collector’s investment is its remarkable state of completeness. Nestled inside its original, warm teak lockable transit case (complete with carrying handle and working lock mechanism and key), you will find the original handwritten Ernst Leitz magnification chart matching the microscope's serial number verbatim. The inside door also proudly sports its original retailer plaque from A. Frazer, Optician, Edinburgh, documenting its historic journey from Germany to the United Kingdom.
Complete with its original wooden accessory slide drawers housing secondary eyepieces and objective canisters, this is an "instant heirloom" display piece perfect for an executive desk, library shelf, or a serious history-of-science collection.
Key Specifications & Condition Report:
Manufacturer: Ernst Leitz Wetzlar, Germany.
Serial Number: 20871 dates exactly to 1891.
Inclusions: Original mahogany cabinet, matching numbered factory documentation card, objective lenses in brass canisters, additional eyepieces, and sub-stage mirror as well as a further colour filter with blue and green interchangeable glasses.
Condition: Excellent antique condition. Brass lacquer is bright with only micro-surface scuffs consistent with careful handling over the last 130+ years. Glass elements are clear; internal gears engage beautifully. Please note that the slide clips are not quite a matching pair.
The case measures 33 (excluding handle) x 19 x 18cm approximately (13" x 7.5" x 7").
Seller's Story
Welcome to Beautiful Old England. We specialise in Antiquarian Books, Antique Surgical Instruments, art and collectibles from old England, for collectors all over the world. We have supplied customers in over 30 countries, nearly all with same day despatch.
Details
Type
Monocular compound microscope, in remarkable state of completeness - 1891
Brass type
Lacquered brass
Number of objects
1
Manufacturer/brand
E. Leitz Wetzlar.
Material
Brass
Country of origin
Germany
Physical condition
Good
Functional condition
Tested and working
Height
33 cm
Width
19 cm
Depth
18 cm
Estimated period
1850-1900
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